Château Pédesclaux 2017

Winery Background and History

Château Pédesclaux, established in 1810 by wine broker Pierre Urbain Pédesclaux, is a distinguished estate located in the Pauillac appellation of Bordeaux, France. Recognized as a Fifth Growth in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, the château has undergone significant transformations over the centuries. In 2009, Jacky Lorenzetti acquired the property, initiating extensive renovations and vineyard expansions to enhance the quality and reputation of the wines produced.

Producer and Winemaker

Under the ownership of Jacky Lorenzetti, Château Pédesclaux has seen substantial investments in both vineyard management and winemaking facilities. The winemaking team focuses on combining traditional Bordeaux practices with modern techniques to craft wines that reflect the unique terroir of Pauillac.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The estate’s vineyards cover approximately 50 hectares, strategically located near the Gironde estuary. This proximity provides a moderating effect on temperatures, protecting the vines from extreme weather conditions. The soils are predominantly gravelly, offering excellent drainage and contributing to the development of deep root systems. This terroir, combined with the maritime climate, creates ideal conditions for cultivating Cabernet Sauvignon and other classic Bordeaux varietals.

Grape Varietals

The 2017 vintage of Château Pédesclaux is composed of:

• 65% Cabernet Sauvignon

• 25% Merlot

• 7% Cabernet Franc

• 3% Petit Verdot

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2017 vintage involved meticulous hand-harvesting of grapes, followed by sorting to ensure optimal quality. Fermentation took place in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, allowing precise management of the process. The wine was then aged for 16 months in French oak barrels, with 60% being new oak. This aging process imparts subtle oak characteristics while preserving the wine’s fruit expression and enhancing its complexity.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

The 2017 Château Pédesclaux has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of approximately 13%.

Tasting Notes

The 2017 Château Pédesclaux presents a deep garnet-purple color. The nose offers a stunning perfume of wilted roses, lilacs, and Ceylon tea, over a core of kirsch, raspberry pie, and warm blackberries, plus touches of garrigue and pencil shavings. On the palate, it is medium-bodied, fresh, and fragrant, with soft, easy-going tannins and a compelling iron ore note on the finish.

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs well with classic meat dishes such as roasted lamb, beef tenderloin, and game. Its balanced acidity and tannin structure also complement rich stews and hearty casseroles. For cheese pairings, consider aged Comté or Gouda to enhance the wine’s nuanced flavors.

Service Methods and Temperatures

It is recommended to decant the 2017 Château Pédesclaux for about an hour before serving to allow the wine to open up and reveal its full aromatic profile. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C (60-64°F) to fully appreciate its complexity and balance.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2017 vintage of Château Pédesclaux is suitable for aging and is expected to develop further complexity over the next 10-15 years. Proper cellaring conditions, with a consistent temperature of around 12-15°C (54-59°F) and humidity levels of 70-75%, will ensure the wine matures gracefully.

Scores

• Wine Enthusiast: 93-95/100

• James Suckling: 94/100

• Decanter: 92/100

• Jeb Dunnuck: 92/100

• Wine Spectator: 92/100

• Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: 91/100